‘Pirates of the Caribbean 5′ Lands Duo for Directors

'Pirates of the Caribbean 5' was a done deal when the fourth film in the franchise, 'On Stranger Tides,' grossed over a billion dollars worldwide. But it was unknown who would helm the fifth entry. And instead of returning to original franchise helmer Gore Verbinski or 'Tides' director Rob Marshall, it was just announced that the job has gone to Joachim Rønning and Espen Sandberg.

The Norwegian duo have previously directed three movies together -- with one being the Salma Hayek/Penelope Cruz-starring vehicle 'Bandidas' -- but the two started popping up big time on Hollywood's radar with 2012's 'Kon-Tiki,' which is about an explorer who sets out to prove South Americans could have settled in Polynesia by setting across the Pacific in a balsa wood raft. So, obviously, they have some experience filming on water.

This news comes from Deadline, who note the production is gearing to start shooting either later this year or by January of 2014, with an announced July 10, 2015 release date, and with a script by Jeff Nathanson (at least, last we heard). Johnny Depp will surely be returning, either because they showed up with an armored car full of money at his home, or as part of a package deal with the Mouse House.The good news? It can't possibly be worse than 'Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.'